Cultivation of ancient Meskhetian vine begins in Samtskhe-Javakheti

Prime Minister of Georgia Giorgi Kvirikashvili took part in the planting of ancient varieties of grapes in the village of Aspindza. Founders of the terraces rehabilitation project are Mamuka Khazaradze and Badri Japaridze [owners of TBC Bank - HN]. Investment in this project amounts to approximately half a million GEL. 17 rare varieties of grapes are planted on the rehabilitated terraces.

Giorgi Kvirikashvili, Mamuka Khazaradze, Badri Japaridze, as well as director of Vardzia Terraces Giorgi Natenadze and Archbishop Teodore have planted the first saplings.

As Georgia’s Prime Minister Giorgi Kvirikashvili said, "This is more than revival of viticulture, it will be the beginning of the revival of the region of Samtskhe-Javakheti region and Georgia in general."

"I am delighted that we have restored this monument of culture, which no one had remembered for centuries; life will come back to the region, more visitors and tourists will be coming," - said Mr. Kvirikashvili.